The African elephants at ARK have become a cohesive group that moves in single file up the hill and across the ridge, grazing, dusting and mud bathing during the long, hot day. Lulu often hangs back with Maggie, sharing branches with her new friend who has now shifted into Lulu’s spot at the bottom of the pecking order.

At night, the social activities continue until one or two o’clock in the morning when the five noisy ladies finally take a brief rest. Inside the barn, Lulu dominates Ruby and Maggie, and often rests her trunk across Maggie’s back as the group clusters in the center of the hall. At least once every night, Maggie disturbs the resting group with an ear-splitting bellow demanding attention one more time before they retire.

Maggie displayed her amazing vocal ability when Bob Barker filmed an “Entertainment tonight” segment at ARK 2000. Since the segment was all about Ruby, the other elephants were kept back with treats while Barker fed Ruby her anniversary cake, but Maggie wanted the cake. After much bellowing, she received a special visit from her benefactor and a large helping of treats which she refused to share.

Maggie continues to have a mind and a will of her own, and we couldn’t be more pleased with her independence.

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